Medical Emergency?
If someone is experiencing a medical emergency due to equipment failure, call 911 immediately. Do not wait for power to be restored.
Why Medical Equipment Planning Matters
California's power shutoffs and outages can last from hours to days. For Californians who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment, a power outage isn't just an inconvenience—it's a potential life-threatening emergency. Planning ahead and having backup power options can literally save lives.
Critical Medical Devices
Life Support
Immediate backup required
Life Critical- VentilatorsRequires continuous powerBattery backup varies by device; confirm with the supplier.
- Home DialysisSchedule around outage if possibleNo battery backup
- IV Infusion PumpsContact provider for manual optionsBattery runtime varies by model and operating settings.
Respiratory Equipment
Breathing assistance devices
High Priority- Oxygen ConcentratorsArrange prescribed backup oxygen with your clinician or supplier.Some models need an external backup; verify your device.
- CPAP/BiPAP MachinesBattery packs availableConfirm runtime using your specific device and battery.
- NebulizersBattery/car adapter options existPortable options available
Mobility & Accessibility
Independence devices
- Electric WheelchairsKeep charged, have manual backupRange varies by chair, terrain, load, and battery condition.
- Stair LiftsMost have battery backupBattery-supported trips vary by model and battery condition.
- Hospital BedsManual crank backup recommendedUsually no battery
Medication Storage
Temperature-sensitive meds
- Insulin and other temperature-sensitive medicinesFollow the product label and pharmacist’s storage instructions.Storage limits depend on the specific medication; ask your pharmacist.
- BiologicsCheck specific requirementsVaries by medication
- Eye Drops/SerumsRefrigeration often requiredUse cooler with ice
California Utility Medical Programs
California utilities offer special programs for customers who depend on medical equipment. Enroll now—before an outage occurs.
Medical Baseline Program
Additional electricity allowance at lowest baseline rate for customers with qualifying medical conditions.
Medical Baseline details →PSPS Notification List
Receive advance warning of planned power shutoffs via call, text, and email. Critical for medical equipment users.
Sign up for PSPS alerts →Self-Certification
Ask your utility how to register electricity-dependent medical needs and receive additional outage notifications. Registration does not guarantee priority restoration.
Medical registration & utility links →Backup Power Options
Home Battery + Solar
Most reliable long-term solution. Automatic switchover, renewable charging, whole-home capability.
Runtime:Confirm load-specific runtime with the installer
Cost:Funding depends on eligibility
Portable Power Stations
Best for CPAP, phones, and small devices. Silent operation, safe for indoor use, no fuel required.
Runtime:Verify runtime for the device, settings, and battery
Cost:$300-$1,500
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)
Instant switchover during outages. Ideal for ventilators and continuous-use equipment.
Runtime:Runtime depends on load and battery condition
Cost:$200-$800
Portable Generators
Longest runtime for high-power equipment. Must be used outdoors only—carbon monoxide risk.
Runtime:Runtime depends on fuel, equipment, and load
Cost:$800-$2,500
Medical Equipment Preparedness Checklist
Register with your utility's medical program
Enroll in Medical Baseline and PSPS notification lists
Know your equipment's power needs
List wattage and daily runtime for each device
Have backup power ready
Battery pack, generator, or UPS appropriate for your needs
Keep backup oxygen supply
If using concentrator, maintain portable O2 tank supply
Store medications properly
Have cooler and ice packs ready for temperature-sensitive meds
Create emergency contact list
Doctor, equipment supplier, pharmacy, nearby facility
Identify evacuation locations
Cooling centers, hospitals, family/friends with power
Keep devices charged
Charge all batteries when PSPS is forecast